The three European nations are set to formally recognise a Palestinian state later today, joining 144 other countries that have already done so, writes Al Jazeera.

Ireland’s cabinet is expected to affirm the decision after several hours of debate this morning in parliament.

Speaking yesterday, Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris said: “We believe in the state of Israel and in the state of Palestine, living side by side in peace and stability. And we believe it at a time when others are seeking to bomb that hope to oblivion”.

Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez has been speaking at the Moncloa Palace on the country’s recognition of a Palestinian state: “The recognition of the state of Palestine is not only a matter of historical justice, but we are all aiming at establishing peace. The only route towards establishing peace is the establishment of a Palestinian state, living side by side with the state of Israel”.